WNBA Detroit Shock - Inspiring Women On and Off the Court

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AUBURN HILLS, Mich. - It is one thing to be a role model on the court, but for the Detroit Shock it is more than that; they strive to be role models off the court as well. On September 4 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., Shock teammates Olayinka Sanni and Alexis Hornbuckle, along with NBA Detroit Pistons Automotion dancers and other community role models are visiting the young women at Vista Maria for an Inspiring Women program.

The program aims to create unity among the girls at Vista Maria by engaging participants in team building activities. Some activities include finding common interests between the girls, working as a team to solve problems and listening to their role models inspiring words. Each activity is complete with a debriefing of lessons learned and messages to take away.

"These women are an inspiration to us because of what they have overcome and how they are rebuilding their lives," said Shock Guard Alexis Hornbuckle, a graduate from University of Tennessee, the 2008 NCAA National Champions. "It is an honor to take part in a program such as this."

Vista Maria offers intensive treatment services to young women and children who have experienced physical, mental and sexual abuse, substance abuse or mental health issues. Their goal is to ensure all women and children receive the education, health care and emotional support to successfully transition into adulthood.

"Everyone at Vista Maria is excited to bring these inspiring athletes and professional women to campus to encourage our girls to set and achieve goals and to strive to be their best," says Vista Maria Associate Manager of Public Relations Kelly Small.

Vista Maria is located at 20651 W. Warren Ave. Dearborn Heights, MI 48127 from. For more information on Vista Maria please contact Associate Manager of Public Relations Kelly Small at 313/271-3050 ext 182 or by email at ksmall@vistamaria.org.

Meijer, the Grand Rapids-based retailer is pleased to present the 2008 Detroit Shock. For more information regarding tickets or to become a Shock Squad Member (ticket plan holder), please contact The Palace at (248) 377-0100 or log on to www.detroitshock.com.